Ricotta Spinach Calzones

Golden, flaky Ricotta Spinach Calzones are the perfect Italian-style treat that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these calzones are sure to impress. With their flavorful stuffing of ricotta, spinach, and cheese, they offer a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Not only are they delicious, but they also make for an easy-to-handle meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: These calzones can be made from start to finish in just 30 minutes.
• Flavor-Packed Filling: The combination of ricotta and spinach creates a rich and creamy taste that is simply irresistible.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish suitable for various occasions.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like mushrooms or peppers for a personal twist.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun way to get kids involved in cooking—letting them help with filling the calzones can spark their interest in food!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Ricotta Spinach Calzones.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for flattening the dough evenly, ensuring consistent calzone sizes.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of the filling ingredients without any mess.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze after baking.

Ingredients

Golden calzones stuffed with ricotta, spinach, and cheese for a flavorful Italian-style treat.

For the Filling

• 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 8 ounces ricotta cheese
• 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 ounce Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten with 2 tablespoons water
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Dough

• 1 pound pizza dough

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Ricotta Spinach Calzones

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the thawed spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, egg yolk, garlic powder, oregano, red pepper flakes, and salt.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Divide the Dough

On a lightly floured surface:
1. Place the pizza dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces.

Step 4: Shape the Dough Rounds

Using either a rolling pin or your hands:
1. Flatten each piece into a round shape approximately 7 inches wide on parchment paper.

Step 5: Fill the Calzones

For each dough round:
1. Spread 1/4 of the prepared filling over one half of the round.
2. Leave about a 1-inch border around the edge.

Step 6: Seal the Calzones

To seal each calzone:
1. Brush the edges with egg wash using your beaten egg mixture.
2. Fold over the other half of the dough to cover the filling.
3. Press edges together firmly to seal them closed.

Step 7: Add Vents and Brush Topping

To prepare for baking:
1. Cut five steam vents in each calzone’s top using a sharp knife.
2. Brush tops with remaining egg wash for a beautiful golden color during baking.

Step 8: Bake the Calzones

On a parchment-lined baking sheet:
1. Transfer all calzones carefully.
2. Bake for about 8 minutes at 500°F.
3. Afterward, brush with any remaining egg wash and sprinkle with grated Parmesan before returning to bake for another 7 minutes until golden brown.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Once baked:
1. Move calzones to a wire rack.
2. Let cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow filling temperature to settle.

How to Serve Ricotta Spinach Calzones

Ricotta Spinach Calzones are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Pair with a Simple Salad

• Mixed Greens: A fresh mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the calzones.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons in a Caesar salad provide a nice contrast to the soft filling.

Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: A classic choice, marinara adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with the cheesy filling.
• Pesto Sauce: This herbaceous dip brings out the flavors of spinach and adds a fresh element.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling chopped basil or parsley on top adds color and freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grating extra Parmesan over the calzones before serving enhances their cheesy goodness.

How to Perfect Ricotta Spinach Calzones

To make sure your Ricotta Spinach Calzones turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Boldly Squeeze Spinach: Ensure you squeeze out as much water as possible from the spinach. This prevents sogginess in your calzones.
• Boldly Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheeses make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for fresh oregano over dried if possible.
• Boldly Roll Dough Evenly: When rolling out the dough, aim for even thickness. This ensures even cooking and prevents some parts from burning while others are undercooked.
• Boldly Seal Edges Well: Sealing the edges tightly keeps the filling inside and avoids messy leaks during baking.
• Boldly Preheat Oven Fully: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 500°F before baking. This helps achieve a crispy crust quickly.

Best Side Dishes for Ricotta Spinach Calzones

Serving your Ricotta Spinach Calzones with the right sides can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options that pair well with these delicious treats.

1. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the Italian theme and is perfect for dipping into sauces.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil brings color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Antipasto Platter: Include olives, cured meats, and cheeses for an Italian-inspired starter that whets the appetite.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side that’s easy to prepare.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or cheese add substance and flavor alongside calzones.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and contrast to the rich filling of the calzones.

These sides enhance your meal while keeping it enjoyable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ricotta Spinach Calzones, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Squeeze: Not squeezing the spinach dry can lead to a watery filling. Make sure to thoroughly remove excess moisture to keep your calzones from becoming soggy.

• Overstuffing: Adding too much filling can cause the calzones to burst during baking. Stick to the recommended amount of filling for each calzone to ensure they seal properly.

• Ignoring Dough Temperature: Using cold dough can make it difficult to roll out. Let your pizza dough sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before shaping it into rounds.

• Neglecting Egg Wash: Skipping the egg wash can result in pale calzones. Brush the tops with the egg wash before baking for a beautiful golden color.

• Wrong Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can alter cooking time and texture. Preheat your oven to 500°F for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover calzones in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Ricotta Spinach Calzones

• Place cooled calzones in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Ricotta Spinach Calzones

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the calzones on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a calzone on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make gluten-free Ricotta Spinach Calzones?

You can substitute regular pizza dough with gluten-free dough. Many stores offer ready-made options that work well.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh spinach works great! Just sauté it briefly to reduce moisture before adding it to the filling.

How long do Ricotta Spinach Calzones last in the fridge?

They can last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I customize the filling of my Ricotta Spinach Calzones?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or different cheeses based on your preference.

What sauce pairs well with Ricotta Spinach Calzones?

A simple marinara or pesto sauce complements these calzones beautifully and adds extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Ricotta Spinach Calzones are a delicious and versatile dish perfect for any meal. Their crispy exterior and cheesy filling make them irresistible. Feel free to customize your fillings or try different sauces for dipping! Enjoy this Italian-inspired treat with family and friends, and savor every bite!

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